Child sexual abuse case in Cilincing proceeds despite reconciliation efforts

Jakarta - Jakarta North Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the child sexual abuse case involving a nine-year-old girl allegedly molested by her neighbour, identified as M (49), in Sukapura, Cilincing, is proceeding despite the complainant requesting withdrawal of the report.

Kompol Ni Luh Sri Arsini, head of the Child Protection and Trafficking in Persons Unit (PPA/PPO) at Jakarta North Metropolitan Police, stated: “The suspect remains in custody and the case file has been sent to the prosecutor’s office, awaiting review.”

She explained that legal proceedings continue despite reconciliation efforts and a request to suspend the suspect’s detention. “This is a case of child sexual abuse with a potential sentence of over nine years,” she added.

Ni Luh stated that the complainant had requested restorative justice, and the family had also sought suspension of detention. However, given the victim is a child and the potential sentence exceeds nine years, authorities have disregarded the requests. “The case will proceed,” she said.

“It does not affect the investigation. The investigation continues. Any reconciliation efforts will be included in the case file, but the file will be sent regardless, to be considered by the judge,” she said.

Regarding the victim’s psychological condition, authorities are awaiting the results of a psychological assessment. Psychological support has been provided multiple times by the P3A unit.

“We are awaiting the P3A’s findings on the child’s psychology. The victim is currently in a relatively cheerful state,” she said.

Previously, Jakarta North Metropolitan Police arrested M (49), suspected of raping and molesting a nine-year-old girl at Jalan Belibis, Wali Kota Complex, Sukapura Village, Cilincing District, North Jakarta.

“The suspect was arrested on Tuesday (14 April) morning after being detained by Sukapura residents on Monday (13 April) evening,” she said.

The suspect faces charges under Articles 473(2)(b) and 415(b) of Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Criminal Code, with a maximum penalty of 12 years’ imprisonment.

“The suspect is currently in custody at Jakarta North Metropolitan Police and undergoing investigation,” Ni Luh said.